How to Install Cultured Stone Drywall

Run a stud finder across the wall and mark each stud location.

Cover the wall with paper-backed metal lath. Place the lath with the paper against the wall and the metal mesh facing out. Nail the lath to the studs with 1.5-inch roofing nails. Nail the lath so the wire mesh hooks securely behind the nail head. Space nails 6 inches apart along each stud.

Cover the metal lath in a one-half-inch layer of mortar, applying the mortar with a trowel. Use firm pressure to ensure the lath is embedded. Let the mortar set for approximately four hours (or as directed by the manufacturer), until it is stiff but still penetrable. Scratch up the entire mortar coat with a notched trowel or a plasterer's rake. Allow the mortar to cure fully, as directed.

Moisten the back of the stones and the wall with water before applying mortar. Apply one-half-inch to three-quarter-inch-thick layers of mortar to the wall and to the back of the stones, using a notched trowel, which will embed ridges in the mortar. Press the stones firmly onto the wall, and tap them with a rubber mallet to set them in place. Work from the top down and in small sections to keep the mortar from drying out before you attach a stone.